BTR Airport Insights & Guide
Key BTR Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know BTR Airport
Discover Baton Rouge Airport (BTR), the convenient gateway to Louisiana's vibrant capital. Not only is BTR a stone's throw from downtown Baton Rouge, but it also prides itself on its unique art installations that celebrate local culture, making your start to the Louisiana adventure unforgettable. Our concise guide ensures a seamless journey, covering everything from flight status, terminal information, to parking and dining options.
Need a detailed airport walkthrough? Check out our Comprehensive Airport Guide for all you need to navigate BTR and beyond, ensuring a relaxed airport experience.
iFly Tip: Our reference guide is your go-to resource for air travel topics.
Navigating BTR's Terminals
Baton Rouge Airport has one main terminal building with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 6 gates and Concourse B has 4 gates. Major airlines such as Delta, American, and United operate out of both concourses.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim on the lower level of the terminal building. From there, they can proceed to the main level to access ticketing and check-in counters. Security checkpoints are located on each concourse, and passengers should allow ample time to pass through security before their scheduled departure time.
Inside the terminal building, passengers will find a variety of dining and shopping options. Concourse A has a coffee shop, a bar, and a newsstand, while Concourse B has a restaurant and a gift shop. There are also several ATMs and charging stations throughout the terminal building.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Baton Rouge Airport, there is only one terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. All gates, restaurants, and shops are located within the same building, making it easy to navigate. The airport is relatively small, so walking times are short and there is no need for a shuttle bus or train. If you need any assistance, the airport staff is always available to help you navigate the terminal.
Tips from BTR Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BTR-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"BTR is a breeze to navigate. With just one terminal and two concourses, you won't get lost. If you're flying Delta, you’ll likely be in Concourse A. Just keep an eye on the signage, and you’ll be at your gate in no time." — John D., Baker, LA, December 2023
"For first-timers at BTR, remember that the baggage claim is on the lower level. Once you grab your bags, head upstairs for check-in and ticketing. It’s all pretty straightforward." — Lisa M., Zachary, LA, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"If you’re headed downtown, the CATS bus is a great deal at just $1.75. It’s not the fastest, but it’s perfect if you’re looking to save some cash." — Mike T., Port Allen, LA, April 2024
"I always recommend booking a ride-share like Uber or Lyft if you're in a hurry. The pickup area is right outside baggage claim, so it's super convenient." — Karen S., Denham Springs, LA, January 2024
Parking
"For short trips, the parking garage is right next to the terminal and super easy to access. But if you’re leaving your car for a week or more, consider the off-airport lots to save some bucks." — Tom H., Prairieville, LA, February 2024
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It’s free for 30 minutes and saves you from circling around." — Emily R., Central, LA, May 2024
Inside the Airport
"Don’t miss Zocalo for some authentic Louisiana flavors. Their po'boys are a must-try if you have time before your flight." — Sarah K., Gonzales, LA, June 2024
"Need a caffeine boost? PJ's Coffee in the main terminal is a lifesaver for those early morning flights." — Paul J., Walker, LA, July 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Arrive early, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can be longer than expected, and it’s better to have time to relax rather than rush." — Alex P., St. Gabriel, LA, August 2024
"Keep an eye on flight status boards. They’re updated regularly, and it’s the best way to stay informed about any changes to your flight." — Maria L., Brusly, LA, September 2024
iFly Tip: Ensure in-flight comfort with help from our travel tips for overweight passengers.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When picking up or dropping off passengers at the airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, curbside parking is not allowed at the airport. Drivers must use the designated parking areas to wait for their passengers. There are short-term and long-term parking options available, with rates starting at $2 per hour and $10 per day.
If you prefer not to park, the airport also offers a cell-phone waiting area where you can wait for your passenger to call you when they are ready to be picked up. This area is located near the airport entrance and is free to use for up to 30 minutes. Once your passenger has retrieved their luggage and is ready to be picked up, you can proceed to the designated pick-up area outside of baggage claim.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Baton Rouge Airport, there are several options available for travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options in their parking garage, which is located adjacent to the terminal building. The garage is a convenient option for those who want to park as close to the terminal as possible.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the terminal, making it easy to get to your flight on time. Off-airport parking can be a great way to save money on parking fees, especially for longer trips.
For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just outside the terminal building. This area allows you to park for free for up to 30 minutes while you wait for your party to arrive.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas at Baton Rouge Airport. Designated spaces are located close to the terminal building for easy access.
Transportation Options
Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available on-site. The car rental facilities are conveniently located near the baggage claim area. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside of the baggage claim area, with the drop-off area located at the terminal entrance. Taxi fares are based on the meter and can vary depending on your destination. For a smooth experience, consider booking a taxi ahead of time during off-peak hours.
- Ride-Share Services: Services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. The pickup area for these services is located outside of the baggage claim area. Be mindful of any restrictions regarding the number of passengers and luggage when using shared ride services.
- Airport Shuttles: Shuttle services are available for travelers needing transportation to nearby hotels or businesses. The shuttle pickup area is located outside of the baggage claim area. Shuttle fares vary depending on your destination, and it is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) provides bus service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the baggage claim area. The fare for a one-way trip is $1.75, making it an affordable option for travelers.
iFly Tip: Shorter lines and less hassle? Check out the TSA PreCheck Guide for more details.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our comprehensive guide features a variety of hotel options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations, all within a 6-mile radius from the airport. Whether you're an air traveler seeking convenience, a sports enthusiast, or a culture and entertainment seeker, we have something for everyone. Explore our list of hotels that offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and even kitchenettes. Some are located near popular attractions like the Ace W. Mumford Stadium and Downtown Baton Rouge. Start planning your stay today with our Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport Hotels guide.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
When it comes to dining and shopping options at BTR, travelers won't be disappointed. There are plenty of options available to satisfy any cravings or shopping needs. For a quick bite, head to PJ's Coffee located in the main terminal or grab a sandwich from Quiznos in the Concourse B. For a sit-down meal, visit the Louisiana-inspired restaurant, Zocalo, located in the main terminal. Their menu features local favorites such as gumbo and po'boys.
For those looking to do some shopping, there are several stores to choose from. Visit the LSU Shop in the main terminal to pick up some gear for the Tigers fans in your life. If you're in need of some last-minute travel essentials, head to the Hudson News located in both the main terminal and Concourse B. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Louisiana Marketshops located in the main terminal. They offer a variety of locally-made products including food, jewelry, and artwork.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at BTR Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: BTR Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, lost and found services are available at the airport for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, BTR Airport features a designated children's play area located in the terminal.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport. Additionally, a full-service bank is located in the terminal for your convenience.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a medical clinic is located in the airport, along with first-aid stations throughout the terminal.
Flight Status Info
As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight departure. Luckily, there are several ways to check the flight status at the airport.
One way to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate the display that corresponds to your flight and check the status.
Another way to stay informed is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. Download the app for your airline and set up notifications to stay informed.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Baton Rouge Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) is located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States.
- Terminal: The airport features a single terminal.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the BTR Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Baton Rouge Airport handles approximately 5,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from BTR are Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Charlotte, and Orlando.
- Hub Status: Baton Rouge Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although Delta Airlines operates the most flights from the airport.
Airport History
The airport, also known as Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1940: The airport was established as Harding Army Air Field, named after a local pilot who died in a crash.
- 1942: The airfield was turned over to the United States Army Air Forces and used as a training base during World War II.
- 1946: The airport was returned to civilian control and renamed Ryan Airport after a local aviator.
- 1958: A new terminal building was constructed to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
- 1961: The airport was renamed Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport to reflect its role as a regional transportation hub.
- 1981: A major expansion project was completed, which included a new runway, taxiway, and parking facilities.
- 2009: The airport underwent a $15 million renovation that included upgrades to the terminal building, baggage claim area, and parking lot.
- 2019: The airport celebrated its 80th anniversary and continued to serve as an important gateway to Louisiana's capital city.
Today, Baton Rouge Airport is a modern facility that offers a range of amenities for travelers, including dining options, retail shops, and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're visiting Baton Rouge for business or pleasure, the airport provides a convenient and comfortable way to get there.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: BTR
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 225-355-0333
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, 9430 Jackie Cochran Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70807, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Baton Rouge Airport Q&A
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